What question did this study set out to answer?

To resolve the agent-structure problem in international relations theory by critiquing the structural conceptualizations of neorealism and world-system theory.

January 1, 1987International OrganizationOpen Access

The agent-structure problem in international relations theory

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AWAlexander WendtDartmouth College

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Implication

Theoretical analysis uncovers mutual constitution of agents and structures in international relations, highlighting structuration theory as an alternative framework.

Key Points

To resolve the agent-structure problem in international relations theory by critiquing the structural conceptualizations of neorealism and world-system theory.
Comparative theoretical critique analyzing how neorealism and world-system theory define system structures and agent interactions.
Conceptual integration of sociological structuration theory grounded in the philosophy of scientific realism.
Demonstrates that neorealism reduces structures to individualist constraints on preexisting states, while world-system theory reifies structures as generating state agents.
Identifies that both frameworks fail to capture the mutually constitutive relationship between human agents and system structures.
Establishes a scientific realist and structurationist framework that defines a structural-historical research agenda for international relations.

Cite This Study

Alexander Wendt (1987) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a08cc3585b227e46401e9ac https://doi.org/10.1017/s002081830002751x

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Implication

Theoretical analysis uncovers mutual constitution of agents and structures in international relations, highlighting structuration theory as an alternative framework.

The agent-structure problem in international relations theory

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

The agent-structure problem in international relations theory

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

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